CMDR. Max Murphy
Executive Officer, USS John Basilone (DDG 122)
01 August 2025
CDR Murphy graduated high school in Miami, FL in 2005. In 2009, he graduated from the US Naval Academy with a BS in economics and a double minor in Spanish and Arabic. Upon commissioning, CDR Murphy reported to MCM Crew Fearless aboard USS Pioneer (MCM 9) in San Diego, CA. He completed two hull swaps, RIMPAC 2010, and two deployments to 5th Fleet while serving as the Electrical Officer, Auxiliaries Officer, and Assistant Chief Engineer.
In 2012, CDR Murphy reported to USS Shiloh (CG 67) in Yokosuka, Japan as the Fire Control Officer. He conducted planning and execution of BMD operations in response to missile launches by the DPRK. CDR Murphy also completed one patrol of the 7th Fleet AOR with the George Washington Strike Group.
In 2013, he reported to the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey, CA. CDR Murphy received his MA in Security Studies (Strategic Studies) in 2014. During his time in Monterey, CDR Murphy was also the Carmel High School lacrosse team head coach for two championship winning seasons. In 2015, he served as an N72 instructor in Newport, RI at the Surface Warfare Officers School.
From 2017 to 2020, CDR Murphy served as the Operations Officer and Combat Systems Officer onboard USS MOMSEN (DDG 92) in Everett, WA. This tour included participation in RIMPAC 2018 and a 7th Fleet deployment focused on UN sanctions enforcement against the DPRK.
From 2021 to 2022, CDR Murphy served as Director and lead instructor of the OOD Phase 1 course at the newly formed Mariner Skills Training Center Pacific in San Diego, CA. From 2022 to 2024, he completed a Joint tour as Current Maritime Operations Officer within the Crisis Operations branch at US SOUTHERN COMMAND in Miami, FL.
CDR Murphy is currently serving as Executive Officer onboard USS John Basilone (DDG 122).
CDR Murphy has received various individual and unit awards to include the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Navy and Marine Corps Commendation Medal (4), Navy and Marine Corps Achievement Medal (2), Meritorious Unit Commendation (3), and Battle Excellence Ribbon (2) among others.